US20200067254A1 - Electrical connector tool - Google Patents
Electrical connector tool Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20200067254A1 US20200067254A1 US16/109,205 US201816109205A US2020067254A1 US 20200067254 A1 US20200067254 A1 US 20200067254A1 US 201816109205 A US201816109205 A US 201816109205A US 2020067254 A1 US2020067254 A1 US 2020067254A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- electrical connector
- shaped cradle
- cradle
- contact surface
- main body
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
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Classifications
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R43/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors
- H01R43/26—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors for engaging or disengaging the two parts of a coupling device
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B27/00—Hand tools, specially adapted for fitting together or separating parts or objects whether or not involving some deformation, not otherwise provided for
- B25B27/02—Hand tools, specially adapted for fitting together or separating parts or objects whether or not involving some deformation, not otherwise provided for for connecting objects by press fit or detaching same
- B25B27/10—Hand tools, specially adapted for fitting together or separating parts or objects whether or not involving some deformation, not otherwise provided for for connecting objects by press fit or detaching same inserting fittings into hoses
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B5/00—Clamps
- B25B5/06—Arrangements for positively actuating jaws
- B25B5/068—Arrangements for positively actuating jaws with at least one jaw sliding along a bar
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B5/00—Clamps
- B25B5/14—Clamps for work of special profile
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B5/00—Clamps
- B25B5/16—Details, e.g. jaws, jaw attachments
- B25B5/163—Jaws or jaw attachments
Definitions
- This disclosure relates to the field of tools, and more particularly, to tools for assisting operators with connecting electrical connectors.
- MSDs Musculoskeletal Disorders
- the electrical connector tool includes U-shaped cradles that are mounted on jaw members of a bar clamp.
- One of the electrical connectors e.g., a male connector
- a front side of the cradle abuts a flange on the electrical connector.
- the other electrical connector e.g., a female connector
- One embodiment comprises an apparatus for an electrical connector tool.
- the apparatus comprises a first U-shaped cradle and a second U-shaped cradle.
- Each of the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle comprises a contact surface on a front side configured to contact a flange on an electrical connector, and a jaw mount configured to mount on a jaw member of a bar clamp.
- each of the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle comprises a main body member, and a pair of arms that project from a top side of the main body member.
- the arms are spaced apart by a gap, and are coplanar along the contact surface.
- the arms project in parallel from the top side of the main body member.
- the gap between the arms is dimensioned so that an outer surface of the electrical connector fits between the arms.
- the jaw mount comprises a T-slot formed in the main body member that extends from a bottom side of the main body member toward the top side of the main body member.
- the T-slot includes a base surface disposed at a depth from a back side of the main body member, and the base surface is oriented at an angle to the contact surface.
- the base surface slants from the bottom side of the main body member toward the contact surface at an angle in the range of 3-7 degrees.
- the T-slot is dimensioned to receive a jaw pad on the jaw member with the base surface abutting a pressing face of the jaw pad.
- each of the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle comprises one or more index pins in one or both of the arms that project from the contact surface.
- the index pin(s) projects perpendicularly from the contact surface.
- Another embodiment comprises a method of connecting electrical connectors with an electrical connector tool.
- the method includes mounting a first U-shaped cradle to a first jaw member of a bar clamp, and mounting a second U-shaped cradle to a second jaw member of the bar clamp so that a first contact surface of the first U-shaped cradle faces a second contact surface of the second U-shaped cradle.
- the method further includes positioning a first electrical connector in the first U-shaped cradle so that the first contact surface of the first U-shaped cradle contacts a first flange on the first electrical connector.
- the method further includes positioning a second electrical connector in the second U-shaped cradle so that the second contact surface of the second U-shaped cradle contacts a second flange on the second electrical connector.
- the method further includes moving the second U-shaped cradle toward the first U-shaped cradle via the bar clamp to connect the second electrical connector with the first electrical connector.
- the method includes inserting an index pin(s) that projects from the first contact surface of the first U-shaped cradle through an index hole(s) in the first flange on the first electrical connector, and inserting an index pin(s) that projects from the second contact surface of the second U-shaped cradle through an index hole(s) in the second flange on the second electrical connector.
- the bar clamp comprises a ratcheting bar clamp.
- the step of moving the second U-shaped cradle toward the first U-shaped cradle comprises squeezing a trigger on a ratcheting handle of the ratcheting bar clamp.
- the method includes fabricating the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle via 3D printing.
- the electrical connector tool includes a bar clamp including a fixed jaw member fixedly attached to a slide bar, and a movable jaw member movably attached to the slide bar.
- the electrical connector tool includes a first U-shaped cradle mounted on the fixed jaw member, and a second U-shaped cradle mounted on the movable jaw member.
- the first U-shaped cradle has a contact surface configured to contact a flange on a first electrical connector when the first electrical connector is positioned in the first U-shaped cradle.
- the second U-shaped cradle has a contact surface configured to contact a flange on a second electrical connector when the second electrical connector is positioned in the second U-shaped cradle.
- the bar clamp further includes a ratcheting handle configured to move the movable jaw member toward the fixed jaw member to compress the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector between the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle.
- the first U-shaped cradle includes one or more index pins that project from the contact surface of the first U-shaped cradle, and are configured to be inserted through one or more index holes in the flange on the first electrical connector.
- the second U-shaped cradle includes one or more index pins that project from the contact surface of the second U-shaped cradle, and are configured to be inserted through one or more index holes in the flange on the second electrical connector.
- the index pin(s) of the first U-shaped cradle and the index pin(s) of the second U-shaped cradle are cone shaped.
- each of the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle comprises a main body member, and a pair of arms that project in parallel from a top side of the main body member.
- the arms are spaced apart by a gap, and are coplanar along the contact surface.
- the main body member includes a T-slot that extends from a bottom side of the main body member toward the top side of the main body member.
- the T-slot is dimensioned to receive a jaw pad on the fixed jaw member or moveable jaw member with a base surface abutting a pressing face of the jaw pad.
- the base surface of the T-slot is oriented at an angle to the contact surface.
- the base surface slants from the bottom side of the main body member toward the contact surface at an angle in the range of 3-7 degrees.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a plug and connector assembly
- FIGS. 2-3 illustrate an electrical connector tool in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a front side of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 6 is another perspective view of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 7 illustrates a back side of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom side of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an electrical connector tool in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 11 illustrates one electrical connector aligned with another electrical connector in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 12 illustrates an electrical connector placed in a cradle in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 13 illustrates another electrical connector placed in another cradle in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 14 illustrates an electrical connector tool squeezing electrical connectors to complete an electrical connection in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a plug and connector assembly 100 .
- Assembly 100 includes an electrical cord 110 with an electrical connector 120 installed at one end of electrical cord 110 .
- Assembly 100 also includes an electrical cord 111 with an electrical connector 140 installed at one end of electrical cord 111 .
- Electrical connector 120 is configured to mate or join with electrical connector 140 to create an electric circuit.
- Electrical connector 120 includes a handle 122 (or housing) connected at one end to electrical cord 110 , and connected at the other end to a male-ended plug 124 .
- Handle 122 is substantially hollow to provide a passageway for the conductors (not shown) of electrical cord 110 to connect with plug 124 .
- Plug 124 includes a sleeve 128 , and one or more (male) pins 130 (or terminals) that electrically connect with the conductors of electrical cord 110 .
- Electrical connector 120 also includes a flange 132 that projects radially from a periphery or outer surface 134 of electrical connector 120 .
- Outer surface 134 of electrical connector 120 may generally have a cylindrical shape or profile due to the shape of handle 122 , plug 124 , sleeve 128 , etc., although other shapes are considered herein.
- Flange 132 may project around the circumference of outer surface 134 , or a portion of the circumference.
- Flange 132 may be molded with handle 122 or plug 124 , or may be an accessory attached between handle 122 and plug 124 , such as a draw plate.
- Flange 132 may be formed from a rigid material, such as plastic, and may include or more index holes 136 as shown in FIG. 1 .
- Electrical connector 140 includes a handle 142 connected at one end to electrical cord 111 , and connected at the other end to a female-ended receptacle 144 (or socket). Handle 142 is substantially hollow to provide a passageway for the conductors of electrical cord 111 to connect with receptacle 144 .
- Receptacle 144 includes an annular cavity 148 that accommodates sleeve 128 of plug 124 , and one or more (female) terminals 150 that electrically connect with the conductors of electrical cord 111 . Terminals 150 are configured to mate with pins 130 of plug 124 .
- Electrical connector 140 also includes a flange 152 that projects radially from a periphery or outer surface 154 of electrical connector 140 .
- Outer surface 154 of electrical connector 140 may generally have a cylindrical shape or profile due to the shape of handle 142 and receptacle 144 , although other shapes are considered herein.
- Flange 152 may project around the circumference of outer surface 154 , or a portion of the circumference.
- Flange 152 may be molded with handle 142 or receptacle 144 , or may be an accessory attached between handle 142 and receptacle 144 , such as a draw plate.
- Flange 152 may be formed from a rigid material, and may include or more index holes 156 as shown in FIG. 1 .
- electrical connectors 120 / 140 in FIG. 1 is one example. However, the pinout, physical construction, size, etc., of electrical connectors 120 / 140 may vary in other examples.
- Electrical connectors 120 / 140 may represent “large” electrical connectors, which are larger than a typical electrical connector used for 120-volt applications.
- electrical connectors 120 / 140 may be rated for 480 volts or more.
- the contact resistance between the electrical connectors may be high.
- the contact resistance between sleeve 128 and annular cavity 148 and/or the contact resistance between pins 130 and terminals 150 may make it difficult for an operator to fully insert plug 124 into receptacle 144 .
- the following embodiments set forth an electrical connector tool and associated method to assist an operator in coupling electrical connectors such as shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIGS. 2-3 illustrate an electrical connector tool 200 in an illustrative embodiment.
- Electrical connector tool 200 is an apparatus or device configured to assist an operator in connecting electrical connectors.
- electrical connector tool 200 includes a bar clamp 210 and a pair of cradles 220 - 221 .
- Bar clamp 210 includes a slide bar 212 and jaw members 214 - 215 .
- jaw member 214 is fixed to slide bar 212
- jaw member 215 is slidably or movably mounted to slide bar 212 .
- the distance between jaw member 214 and jaw member 215 may be closed by movement of jaw member 215 along slide bar 212 .
- Bar clamp 210 is a ratcheting type in this embodiment.
- Jaw member 215 is affixed to a ratcheting handle 218 having a ratcheting mechanism (not shown) activated by a trigger 219 .
- Squeezing of trigger 219 causes longitudinal translation of ratcheting handle 218 /jaw member 215 along slide bar 212 in the direction of jaw member 214 .
- a ratcheting bar clamp 210 is shown in FIG. 2 , other types of bar clamps may be used which have one or more jaw members that slide toward one another along a slide bar.
- Cradles 220 - 221 are configured to mount on jaw members 214 - 215 .
- Cradles 220 - 221 each have a U-shape to receive and straddle an electrical connector 120 / 140 .
- Cradles 220 - 221 are opposing as mounted on bar clamp 210 .
- cradles 220 - 221 are aligned in the longitudinal direction of bar clamp 210 , and are rotated 180 degrees in relation to each other so that the “front sides” of cradles 220 - 221 face each other.
- the front sides of cradles 220 - 221 will contact flanges on a pair of electrical connectors to squeeze the electrical connectors between cradles 220 - 221 .
- cradles 220 - 221 may be permanently affixed or formed on jaw members 214 - 215 .
- cradles 220 - 221 may be temporarily or removably mounted on jaw members 214 - 215 as an accessory, such as shown in FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 3 illustrates electrical connector tool 200 with cradles 220 - 221 removed from bar clamp 210 .
- Jaw members 214 - 215 include jaw pads 316 - 317 , respectively.
- a jaw pad 316 - 317 is the part of a jaw member 214 - 215 that contacts a workpiece during a normal clamping function, and applies a force via a pressing face 322 - 323 .
- Jaw pads 316 - 317 may be made from a softer material than jaw members 214 - 215 to avoid indenting or marring the surface of a workpiece.
- Cradles 220 - 221 are configured to slide onto jaw pads 316 - 317 , respectively, as shown in FIG. 2 . When mounted in this manner, cradles 220 - 221 are aligned and face each other.
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of cradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment.
- Cradle 220 may be a unibody or multi-piece member formed from a rigid material, such as plastic, a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic, or another type of material.
- the structure of cradle 220 includes a main body member 404 and arms 406 - 407 . When oriented vertically as shown in FIG. 4 , arms 406 - 407 project from a top side 410 of main body member 404 in parallel and are separated by a gap 418 .
- the structure of cradle 220 may be referred to as a U-shape, as arms 406 - 407 and the top side 410 of main body member 404 form a “U”.
- FIG. 4 The view in FIG. 4 is of a front side 412 of cradle 220 .
- Front side 412 of cradle 220 (and consequently, the front side of main body member 404 and arms 406 - 407 ) is the side that faces cradle 221 when both are attached to bar clamp 210 as in FIG. 2 .
- Front side 412 includes a contact surface 420 configured to abut or contact a flange 132 / 152 on an electrical connector 120 / 140 , and apply a longitudinal force against flange 132 / 152 .
- Contact surface 420 is formed by the surfaces of arms 406 - 407 , and at least a portion of a surface of main body member 404 .
- Contact surface 420 may be a substantially planar surface, and thus, arms 406 - 407 are coplanar along contact surface 420 .
- Cradle 220 may also include one or more index pins 430 that project from contact surface 420 .
- Index pins 430 may project substantially perpendicular to contact surface 420 as shown in FIG. 4 , or may project at a desired angle from contact surface 420 .
- Index pins 430 may be cylindrical, may be cone-shaped, or may have another shape.
- index pins 430 may be integral with arms 406 - 407 (i.e., formed in the same fabrication process).
- index pins 430 may be affixed to arms 406 - 407 in a separate fabrication process.
- holes 432 may be formed in arms 406 - 407 , and index pins 430 may be pressed or otherwise fit into holes 432 .
- Index pins 430 may be made from the same material as arms 406 - 407 , or a different material.
- arms 406 - 407 may be made from a plastic material while index pins 430 may be made from a metal.
- FIG. 5 illustrates front side 412 of cradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment.
- the width (W 1 ) of gap 418 is defined by the separation between an inner surface 502 of arm 406 and an inner surface 503 of arm 407 .
- the width of gap 418 is dimensioned to accommodate an electrical connector.
- a typical electrical connector i.e., electrical connector 120 / 140 in FIG. 1
- the handle of the electrical connector may be inserted between arms 406 - 407 of cradle 220 so that arms 406 - 407 straddle the handle.
- Gap 418 may be dimensioned to be slightly larger than the outer surface of the handle so that the handle fits between arms 406 - 407 .
- a portion of the outer surface of the handle may contact an upper surface 510 of main body member 404 .
- a portion of upper surface 510 may be curved as shown in FIG. 5 or otherwise shaped to correspond with the contour of the handle.
- FIG. 6 is another perspective view of cradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment.
- FIG. 6 shows a back side 612 of cradle 220 .
- Cradle 220 includes a jaw mount 620 that is configured to mount on or attach to a jaw member/jaw pad of a bar clamp, such as bar clamp 210 .
- Jaw mount 620 is configured to mount cradle 220 on a jaw member/jaw pad of a bar clamp in an up-right orientation so that the lengthwise axes of arms 406 - 407 are transverse to the longitudinal direction of the bar clamp.
- jaw mount 620 comprises a mounting slot or T-slot 622 , which is a T-shape aperture in main body member 404 configured to receive a T-shaped feature on a bar clamp, such as a jaw member/jaw pad.
- T-slot 622 extends from a bottom side 610 of cradle 220 /main body member 404 toward top side 410 of main body member 404 so that T-slot 622 may receive a T-shaped feature from the bottom side 610 of cradle 220 .
- T-slot 622 along its length, is substantially centered in main body member 404 between lengthwise axes of arms 406 - 407 .
- the depth of T-slot 622 is from back side 612 of main body member 404 , and into an interior of main body member 404 .
- FIGS. 7-9 further illustrate the configuration of T-slot 622 .
- FIG. 7 illustrates back side 612 of cradle 220 .
- the bottom, interior surface of T-slot 622 is referred to as base surface 624 .
- Base surface 624 may comprise a substantially flat or planar surface configured to abut a pressing face 322 - 323 of a jaw pad 316 - 317 , which is described in more detail below.
- T-slot 622 also has a top surface 623 and opposing side surfaces 626 - 627 .
- the length (L 2 ) of T-slot 622 is a distance between bottom side 610 of cradle 220 /main body member 404 and top surface 623 .
- the width (W 2 ) of T-slot 622 is the maximum distance between side surfaces 626 - 627 .
- FIG. 8 illustrates bottom side 610 of cradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment.
- This figure illustrates the T-shaped design of T-slot 622 .
- the width (W 2 ) of T-slot 622 is wider in the interior of main body member 404 than at back side 612 .
- the distance between side surfaces 626 - 627 is wider proximate to base surface 624 , and narrows proximate to back side 612 .
- the narrowing of side surfaces 626 - 627 defines opposing grooves 802 - 803 of T-slot 622 that are sized for a jaw pad 316 - 317 .
- a jaw pad 316 - 317 may therefore be slid into grooves 802 - 803 , and interlock with grooves 802 - 803 to secure cradle 220 onto a jaw member 214 - 215 .
- a jaw pad 316 - 317 is inserted in T-slot 622 , the top side of the jaw pad 316 - 317 contacts top surface 623 .
- the length (L 2 ) of T-slot 622 therefore defines how far a cradle 220 can slide onto a jaw pad 316 - 317 .
- Base surface 624 is defined by the depth (D 2 ) of T-slot 622 in reference to back side 612 .
- T-slot 622 may be open at back side 612 to accommodate the shape of a jaw member 214 - 215 .
- the dimensions (e.g., length, width, and depth), shape, size, etc., of T-slot 622 may vary depending on the dimensions of the jaw member or jaw pad upon which cradle 220 is mounted.
- FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of cradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment.
- the view in FIG. 9 is across view arrows 9 - 9 in FIG. 7 .
- base surface 624 is angled in relation to contact surface 420 .
- Line 902 represents the plane of contact surface 420
- line 903 represents the plane of base surface 624 .
- cradle 220 may be mounted on jaw member 214 by inserting jaw pad 316 into T-slot 622 . Because jaw pad 316 and jaw member 214 have a T-shape, jaw pad 316 is able to slide into T-slot 622 until the top of jaw pad 316 contacts top surface 623 . When inserted, pressing face 322 of jaw pad 316 contacts base surface 624 of T-slot 622 . The sides of jaw pad 316 are positioned in grooves 802 - 803 of T-slot 622 to interlock jaw pad 316 with T-slot 622 in a slidable manner.
- cradle 220 may be slid on and off jaw pad 316 in one direction, it is substantially secured on jaw pad 316 in the longitudinal direction of bar clamp 210 when jaw pad 316 is inserted in T-slot 622 .
- a longitudinal force from jaw pad 316 is translated to cradle 220 without detaching cradle 220 from jaw pad 316 .
- Cradle 221 may be mounted on jaw member 215 in a similar manner.
- FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1000 of operating electrical connector tool 200 in an illustrative embodiment.
- the steps of method 1000 will be described with reference to electrical connector tool 200 in FIGS. 2-9 , but those skilled in the art will appreciate that method 1000 may be performed with other tools.
- the steps of the flow charts described herein are not all inclusive and may include other steps not shown, and the steps may be performed in an alternative order.
- Method 1000 begins with the optional step of fabricating, manufacturing, or otherwise forming cradles 220 - 221 for electrical connector tool 200 (step 1002 ).
- An operator or other user may create or identify a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model of the cradles 220 - 221 .
- the CAD model may be parametric so that the operator may set the width of gap 418 based on the size of the electrical connector, set the dimensions/shape of T-slot 622 based on the dimensions/shape of a jaw member/jaw pad on a bar clamp, etc.
- the operator may then fabricate the cradles 220 - 221 based on the CAD model, such as with 3D printing.
- the operator After forming or otherwise acquiring the cradles 220 - 221 , the operator installs, mounts, or otherwise attaches one of the cradles 220 on one of the jaw members of a bar clamp (step 1004 ), such as fixed jaw member 214 .
- the operator may insert jaw pad 316 into T-slot 622 of cradle 220 .
- cradle 220 is substantially secured on fixed jaw member 214 .
- the operator also installs, mounts, or otherwise attaches the other one of the cradles 221 on the other one of the jaw members of the bar clamp (step 1006 ), such as moveable jaw member 215 .
- the operator may insert jaw pad 317 into T-slot 622 of cradle 221 .
- jaw pad 317 When jaw pad 317 is fully inserted into T-slot 622 , cradle 221 is substantially secured on moveable jaw member 215 .
- contact surface 420 of cradle 220 faces contact surface 420 of cradle 221 (see FIG. 2 ).
- the operator may separate cradles 220 - 221 on bar clamp 210 a desired distance for the following steps.
- the operator is tasked with connecting two electrical connectors 120 / 140 (see FIG. 1 ).
- the operator may align plug 124 of electrical connector 120 with receptacle 144 of electrical connector 140 , and insert plug 124 into receptacle 144 a limited amount as shown in FIG. 11 .
- the operator positions electrical connector 120 in cradle 220 (step 1008 ). More particularly, the operator places electrical connector 120 lengthwise between arms 406 - 407 of cradle 220 so that arms 406 - 407 straddle electrical connector 120 as shown in FIG. 12 . With arms 406 - 407 straddling electrical connector 120 , the contact surface 420 of cradle 220 (see FIG.
- flange 132 e.g., draw plate
- Contact surface 420 will contact a side of flange 132 that is facing electrical cord 110 , and that is opposite the side facing plug 124 .
- the operator may optionally insert index pins 430 of cradle 220 into index holes 136 of flange 132 (step 1010 ).
- the operator positions the other electrical connector 140 in cradle 221 (step 1012 ). More particularly, the operator places the electrical connector 140 lengthwise between arms 406 - 407 of cradle 221 so that arms 406 - 407 straddle the electrical connector 140 as shown in FIG. 13 . With arms 406 - 407 straddling the electrical connector 140 , the contact surface 420 of cradle 221 (see FIG. 4 ) may be brought into contact with the flange 152 (e.g., draw plate) of electrical connector 140 . Contact surface 420 will contact a side of flange 152 that is facing electrical cord 111 , and that is opposite the side facing receptacle 144 . The operator may optionally insert index pins 430 of cradle 221 into index holes 156 of flange 152 (step 1014 ).
- electrical connectors 120 / 140 are sandwiched between cradles 220 - 221 .
- the operator then moves cradle 221 toward cradle 220 via bar clamp 210 (step 1016 ) as shown in FIG. 14 .
- bar clamp 210 As cradle 221 is drawn toward cradle 220 , they force electrical connectors 120 / 140 together to make a full connection (i.e., plug 124 is fully inserted in receptacle 144 ).
- bar clamp 210 is a ratcheting-type clamp as in FIG. 2
- the operator may repeatedly squeeze the trigger 219 on ratcheting handle 218 to longitudinally translate cradle 221 along slide bar 212 toward cradle 220 .
- Electrical connector tool 200 advantageously allows the operator to use one hand to couple electrical connectors 120 / 140 , instead of having to grasp electrical connectors 120 / 140 with both hands and trying to insert plug 124 into receptacle 144 .
- the amount of exertion by the operator in squeezing trigger 219 on ratcheting handle 218 is much less than what is required to manually insert plug 124 into receptacle 144 .
- operators will experience less muscle fatigue throughout the workday.
- operators with weaker hand/arm muscles or operators with one hand may effectively couple electrical connectors 120 / 140 using electrical connector tool 200 .
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Abstract
Description
- This disclosure relates to the field of tools, and more particularly, to tools for assisting operators with connecting electrical connectors.
- There are various applications where an operator, technician, mechanic, etc., is tasked with plugging a large electrical plug into a large electrical receptacle, such as concerts, amusement parks, manufacturing floors, etc. An operator may have to exert high forces to fully connect the plug into the receptacle. The forces may be so great that operators with low strength capabilities cannot perform these tasks. Also, performing such tasks may expose an operator to Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis. This adversely affects production and quality of life for the operator.
- Embodiments described herein provide for an electrical connector tool and associated method to assist an operator with connecting electrical connectors, such as large electrical connectors. As an overview, the electrical connector tool includes U-shaped cradles that are mounted on jaw members of a bar clamp. One of the electrical connectors (e.g., a male connector) is inserted (i.e., transversely) through the top of one of the cradles, and a front side of the cradle abuts a flange on the electrical connector. The other electrical connector (e.g., a female connector) is inserted through the top of the other cradle, and a front side of the other cradle abuts a flange on the other electrical connector. As the bar clamp draws the cradles together, the electrical connectors are squeezed between the cradles until they are fully connected. With this electrical connector tool, the amount of force exerted by an operator to connect large electrical connectors is significantly reduced. One technical benefit is that operators will experience less muscle fatigue throughout the workday, and the risk of MSDs is reduced. Another technical benefit is that operators with lower strength capabilities or with only one hand/arm are able to connect large electrical connectors, which can assist employers in complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- One embodiment comprises an apparatus for an electrical connector tool. The apparatus comprises a first U-shaped cradle and a second U-shaped cradle. Each of the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle comprises a contact surface on a front side configured to contact a flange on an electrical connector, and a jaw mount configured to mount on a jaw member of a bar clamp.
- In another embodiment, each of the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle comprises a main body member, and a pair of arms that project from a top side of the main body member. The arms are spaced apart by a gap, and are coplanar along the contact surface.
- In another embodiment, the arms project in parallel from the top side of the main body member.
- In another embodiment, the gap between the arms is dimensioned so that an outer surface of the electrical connector fits between the arms.
- In another embodiment, the jaw mount comprises a T-slot formed in the main body member that extends from a bottom side of the main body member toward the top side of the main body member.
- In another embodiment, the T-slot includes a base surface disposed at a depth from a back side of the main body member, and the base surface is oriented at an angle to the contact surface.
- In another embodiment, the base surface slants from the bottom side of the main body member toward the contact surface at an angle in the range of 3-7 degrees.
- In another embodiment, the T-slot is dimensioned to receive a jaw pad on the jaw member with the base surface abutting a pressing face of the jaw pad.
- In another embodiment, each of the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle comprises one or more index pins in one or both of the arms that project from the contact surface.
- In another embodiment, the index pin(s) projects perpendicularly from the contact surface.
- Another embodiment comprises a method of connecting electrical connectors with an electrical connector tool. The method includes mounting a first U-shaped cradle to a first jaw member of a bar clamp, and mounting a second U-shaped cradle to a second jaw member of the bar clamp so that a first contact surface of the first U-shaped cradle faces a second contact surface of the second U-shaped cradle. The method further includes positioning a first electrical connector in the first U-shaped cradle so that the first contact surface of the first U-shaped cradle contacts a first flange on the first electrical connector. The method further includes positioning a second electrical connector in the second U-shaped cradle so that the second contact surface of the second U-shaped cradle contacts a second flange on the second electrical connector. The method further includes moving the second U-shaped cradle toward the first U-shaped cradle via the bar clamp to connect the second electrical connector with the first electrical connector.
- In another embodiment, the method includes inserting an index pin(s) that projects from the first contact surface of the first U-shaped cradle through an index hole(s) in the first flange on the first electrical connector, and inserting an index pin(s) that projects from the second contact surface of the second U-shaped cradle through an index hole(s) in the second flange on the second electrical connector.
- In another embodiment, the bar clamp comprises a ratcheting bar clamp. The step of moving the second U-shaped cradle toward the first U-shaped cradle comprises squeezing a trigger on a ratcheting handle of the ratcheting bar clamp.
- In another embodiment, the method includes fabricating the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle via 3D printing.
- Another embodiment comprises an electrical connector tool. The electrical connector tool includes a bar clamp including a fixed jaw member fixedly attached to a slide bar, and a movable jaw member movably attached to the slide bar. The electrical connector tool includes a first U-shaped cradle mounted on the fixed jaw member, and a second U-shaped cradle mounted on the movable jaw member. The first U-shaped cradle has a contact surface configured to contact a flange on a first electrical connector when the first electrical connector is positioned in the first U-shaped cradle. The second U-shaped cradle has a contact surface configured to contact a flange on a second electrical connector when the second electrical connector is positioned in the second U-shaped cradle. The bar clamp further includes a ratcheting handle configured to move the movable jaw member toward the fixed jaw member to compress the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector between the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle.
- In another embodiment, the first U-shaped cradle includes one or more index pins that project from the contact surface of the first U-shaped cradle, and are configured to be inserted through one or more index holes in the flange on the first electrical connector. The second U-shaped cradle includes one or more index pins that project from the contact surface of the second U-shaped cradle, and are configured to be inserted through one or more index holes in the flange on the second electrical connector.
- In another embodiment, the index pin(s) of the first U-shaped cradle and the index pin(s) of the second U-shaped cradle are cone shaped.
- In another embodiment, each of the first U-shaped cradle and the second U-shaped cradle comprises a main body member, and a pair of arms that project in parallel from a top side of the main body member. The arms are spaced apart by a gap, and are coplanar along the contact surface.
- In another embodiment, the main body member includes a T-slot that extends from a bottom side of the main body member toward the top side of the main body member. The T-slot is dimensioned to receive a jaw pad on the fixed jaw member or moveable jaw member with a base surface abutting a pressing face of the jaw pad. The base surface of the T-slot is oriented at an angle to the contact surface.
- In another embodiment, the base surface slants from the bottom side of the main body member toward the contact surface at an angle in the range of 3-7 degrees.
- The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed can be achieved independently in various embodiments or may be combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.
- Some embodiments of the present invention are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference number represents the same element or the same type of element on all drawings.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a plug and connector assembly. -
FIGS. 2-3 illustrate an electrical connector tool in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a front side of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 6 is another perspective view of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 7 illustrates a back side of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom side of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a cradle in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an electrical connector tool in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 11 illustrates one electrical connector aligned with another electrical connector in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 12 illustrates an electrical connector placed in a cradle in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 13 illustrates another electrical connector placed in another cradle in an illustrative embodiment. -
FIG. 14 illustrates an electrical connector tool squeezing electrical connectors to complete an electrical connection in an illustrative embodiment. - The figures and the following description illustrate specific exemplary embodiments. It will be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles described herein and are included within the contemplated scope of the claims that follow this description. Furthermore, any examples described herein are intended to aid in understanding the principles of the disclosure, and are to be construed as being without limitation. As a result, this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments or examples described below, but by the claims and their equivalents.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a plug andconnector assembly 100.Assembly 100 includes anelectrical cord 110 with anelectrical connector 120 installed at one end ofelectrical cord 110.Assembly 100 also includes anelectrical cord 111 with anelectrical connector 140 installed at one end ofelectrical cord 111.Electrical connector 120 is configured to mate or join withelectrical connector 140 to create an electric circuit. -
Electrical connector 120 includes a handle 122 (or housing) connected at one end toelectrical cord 110, and connected at the other end to a male-endedplug 124. Handle 122 is substantially hollow to provide a passageway for the conductors (not shown) ofelectrical cord 110 to connect withplug 124.Plug 124 includes asleeve 128, and one or more (male) pins 130 (or terminals) that electrically connect with the conductors ofelectrical cord 110.Electrical connector 120 also includes aflange 132 that projects radially from a periphery orouter surface 134 ofelectrical connector 120.Outer surface 134 ofelectrical connector 120 may generally have a cylindrical shape or profile due to the shape ofhandle 122, plug 124,sleeve 128, etc., although other shapes are considered herein.Flange 132 may project around the circumference ofouter surface 134, or a portion of the circumference.Flange 132 may be molded withhandle 122 or plug 124, or may be an accessory attached betweenhandle 122 and plug 124, such as a draw plate.Flange 132 may be formed from a rigid material, such as plastic, and may include or more index holes 136 as shown inFIG. 1 . -
Electrical connector 140 includes ahandle 142 connected at one end toelectrical cord 111, and connected at the other end to a female-ended receptacle 144 (or socket). Handle 142 is substantially hollow to provide a passageway for the conductors ofelectrical cord 111 to connect withreceptacle 144.Receptacle 144 includes anannular cavity 148 that accommodatessleeve 128 ofplug 124, and one or more (female) terminals 150 that electrically connect with the conductors ofelectrical cord 111. Terminals 150 are configured to mate withpins 130 ofplug 124.Electrical connector 140 also includes aflange 152 that projects radially from a periphery orouter surface 154 ofelectrical connector 140.Outer surface 154 ofelectrical connector 140 may generally have a cylindrical shape or profile due to the shape ofhandle 142 andreceptacle 144, although other shapes are considered herein.Flange 152 may project around the circumference ofouter surface 154, or a portion of the circumference.Flange 152 may be molded withhandle 142 orreceptacle 144, or may be an accessory attached betweenhandle 142 andreceptacle 144, such as a draw plate.Flange 152 may be formed from a rigid material, and may include or more index holes 156 as shown inFIG. 1 . - The characterization of
electrical connectors 120/140 inFIG. 1 is one example. However, the pinout, physical construction, size, etc., ofelectrical connectors 120/140 may vary in other examples. -
Electrical connectors 120/140 may represent “large” electrical connectors, which are larger than a typical electrical connector used for 120-volt applications. For example,electrical connectors 120/140 may be rated for 480 volts or more. In large electrical connectors such as this, the contact resistance between the electrical connectors may be high. For instance, the contact resistance betweensleeve 128 andannular cavity 148 and/or the contact resistance betweenpins 130 and terminals 150 may make it difficult for an operator to fully insertplug 124 intoreceptacle 144. The following embodiments set forth an electrical connector tool and associated method to assist an operator in coupling electrical connectors such as shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 2-3 illustrate anelectrical connector tool 200 in an illustrative embodiment.Electrical connector tool 200 is an apparatus or device configured to assist an operator in connecting electrical connectors. InFIG. 2 ,electrical connector tool 200 includes abar clamp 210 and a pair of cradles 220-221.Bar clamp 210 includes aslide bar 212 and jaw members 214-215. In this embodiment,jaw member 214 is fixed to slidebar 212, andjaw member 215 is slidably or movably mounted to slidebar 212. Thus, the distance betweenjaw member 214 andjaw member 215 may be closed by movement ofjaw member 215 alongslide bar 212. -
Bar clamp 210 is a ratcheting type in this embodiment.Jaw member 215 is affixed to aratcheting handle 218 having a ratcheting mechanism (not shown) activated by atrigger 219. Squeezing oftrigger 219 causes longitudinal translation of ratchetinghandle 218/jaw member 215 alongslide bar 212 in the direction ofjaw member 214. Although a ratchetingbar clamp 210 is shown inFIG. 2 , other types of bar clamps may be used which have one or more jaw members that slide toward one another along a slide bar. - Cradles 220-221 are configured to mount on jaw members 214-215. Cradles 220-221 each have a U-shape to receive and straddle an
electrical connector 120/140. Cradles 220-221 are opposing as mounted onbar clamp 210. In other words, cradles 220-221 are aligned in the longitudinal direction ofbar clamp 210, and are rotated 180 degrees in relation to each other so that the “front sides” of cradles 220-221 face each other. As will be described in more detail below, the front sides of cradles 220-221 will contact flanges on a pair of electrical connectors to squeeze the electrical connectors between cradles 220-221. - In one embodiment, cradles 220-221 may be permanently affixed or formed on jaw members 214-215. In another embodiment, cradles 220-221 may be temporarily or removably mounted on jaw members 214-215 as an accessory, such as shown in
FIG. 3 .FIG. 3 illustrateselectrical connector tool 200 with cradles 220-221 removed frombar clamp 210. Jaw members 214-215 include jaw pads 316-317, respectively. A jaw pad 316-317 is the part of a jaw member 214-215 that contacts a workpiece during a normal clamping function, and applies a force via a pressing face 322-323. Jaw pads 316-317 may be made from a softer material than jaw members 214-215 to avoid indenting or marring the surface of a workpiece. Cradles 220-221 are configured to slide onto jaw pads 316-317, respectively, as shown inFIG. 2 . When mounted in this manner, cradles 220-221 are aligned and face each other. - The following describes the structure of cradles 220-221. Although the description refers to cradle 220,
cradle 221 may have a similar structure.FIG. 4 is a perspective view ofcradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment.Cradle 220 may be a unibody or multi-piece member formed from a rigid material, such as plastic, a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic, or another type of material. The structure ofcradle 220 includes amain body member 404 and arms 406-407. When oriented vertically as shown inFIG. 4 , arms 406-407 project from atop side 410 ofmain body member 404 in parallel and are separated by agap 418. The structure ofcradle 220 may be referred to as a U-shape, as arms 406-407 and thetop side 410 ofmain body member 404 form a “U”. - The view in
FIG. 4 is of afront side 412 ofcradle 220.Front side 412 of cradle 220 (and consequently, the front side ofmain body member 404 and arms 406-407) is the side that facescradle 221 when both are attached to barclamp 210 as inFIG. 2 .Front side 412 includes acontact surface 420 configured to abut or contact aflange 132/152 on anelectrical connector 120/140, and apply a longitudinal force againstflange 132/152.Contact surface 420 is formed by the surfaces of arms 406-407, and at least a portion of a surface ofmain body member 404.Contact surface 420 may be a substantially planar surface, and thus, arms 406-407 are coplanar alongcontact surface 420. -
Cradle 220 may also include one or more index pins 430 that project fromcontact surface 420. Index pins 430 may project substantially perpendicular to contactsurface 420 as shown inFIG. 4 , or may project at a desired angle fromcontact surface 420. Index pins 430 may be cylindrical, may be cone-shaped, or may have another shape. In one embodiment, index pins 430 may be integral with arms 406-407 (i.e., formed in the same fabrication process). In another embodiment, index pins 430 may be affixed to arms 406-407 in a separate fabrication process. For example, holes 432 may be formed in arms 406-407, and index pins 430 may be pressed or otherwise fit intoholes 432. Index pins 430 may be made from the same material as arms 406-407, or a different material. For example, arms 406-407 may be made from a plastic material while index pins 430 may be made from a metal. -
FIG. 5 illustratesfront side 412 ofcradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment. The width (W1) ofgap 418 is defined by the separation between aninner surface 502 ofarm 406 and aninner surface 503 ofarm 407. The width ofgap 418 is dimensioned to accommodate an electrical connector. For instance, a typical electrical connector (i.e.,electrical connector 120/140 inFIG. 1 ) has an elongated handle with a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical outer surface. The handle of the electrical connector may be inserted between arms 406-407 ofcradle 220 so that arms 406-407 straddle the handle.Gap 418 may be dimensioned to be slightly larger than the outer surface of the handle so that the handle fits between arms 406-407. When a handle is inserted between arms 406-407, a portion of the outer surface of the handle may contact anupper surface 510 ofmain body member 404. Thus, a portion ofupper surface 510 may be curved as shown inFIG. 5 or otherwise shaped to correspond with the contour of the handle. -
FIG. 6 is another perspective view ofcradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment.FIG. 6 shows aback side 612 ofcradle 220.Cradle 220 includes ajaw mount 620 that is configured to mount on or attach to a jaw member/jaw pad of a bar clamp, such asbar clamp 210.Jaw mount 620 is configured to mountcradle 220 on a jaw member/jaw pad of a bar clamp in an up-right orientation so that the lengthwise axes of arms 406-407 are transverse to the longitudinal direction of the bar clamp. In one embodiment,jaw mount 620 comprises a mounting slot or T-slot 622, which is a T-shape aperture inmain body member 404 configured to receive a T-shaped feature on a bar clamp, such as a jaw member/jaw pad. Along its length, T-slot 622 extends from abottom side 610 ofcradle 220/main body member 404 towardtop side 410 ofmain body member 404 so that T-slot 622 may receive a T-shaped feature from thebottom side 610 ofcradle 220. T-slot 622, along its length, is substantially centered inmain body member 404 between lengthwise axes of arms 406-407. The depth of T-slot 622 is fromback side 612 ofmain body member 404, and into an interior ofmain body member 404. -
FIGS. 7-9 further illustrate the configuration of T-slot 622.FIG. 7 illustrates backside 612 ofcradle 220. The bottom, interior surface of T-slot 622 is referred to asbase surface 624.Base surface 624 may comprise a substantially flat or planar surface configured to abut a pressing face 322-323 of a jaw pad 316-317, which is described in more detail below. T-slot 622 also has atop surface 623 and opposing side surfaces 626-627. The length (L2) of T-slot 622 is a distance betweenbottom side 610 ofcradle 220/main body member 404 andtop surface 623. The width (W2) of T-slot 622 is the maximum distance between side surfaces 626-627. -
FIG. 8 illustratesbottom side 610 ofcradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment. This figure illustrates the T-shaped design of T-slot 622. The width (W2) of T-slot 622 is wider in the interior ofmain body member 404 than at backside 612. Thus, the distance between side surfaces 626-627 is wider proximate tobase surface 624, and narrows proximate to backside 612. The narrowing of side surfaces 626-627 defines opposing grooves 802-803 of T-slot 622 that are sized for a jaw pad 316-317. A jaw pad 316-317 may therefore be slid into grooves 802-803, and interlock with grooves 802-803 to securecradle 220 onto a jaw member 214-215. When a jaw pad 316-317 is inserted in T-slot 622, the top side of the jaw pad 316-317 contactstop surface 623. The length (L2) of T-slot 622 therefore defines how far acradle 220 can slide onto a jaw pad 316-317.Base surface 624 is defined by the depth (D2) of T-slot 622 in reference toback side 612.Base surface 624 abuts or contacts the pressing face 322-323 of the jaw pad 316-317 so that a force from pressing face 322-323 is applied tobase surface 624. T-slot 622 may be open atback side 612 to accommodate the shape of a jaw member 214-215. The dimensions (e.g., length, width, and depth), shape, size, etc., of T-slot 622 may vary depending on the dimensions of the jaw member or jaw pad upon whichcradle 220 is mounted. -
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view ofcradle 220 in an illustrative embodiment. The view inFIG. 9 is across view arrows 9-9 inFIG. 7 . In this embodiment,base surface 624 is angled in relation to contactsurface 420.Line 902 represents the plane ofcontact surface 420, andline 903 represents the plane ofbase surface 624. There is anangle 904 betweencontact surface 420 andbase surface 624 in the range of 3-7 degrees. Theangle 904 betweencontact surface 420 andbase surface 624 acts to tipcradle 220 slightly backwards on a jaw member or jaw pad. - Referring to
FIGS. 2-3 ,cradle 220 may be mounted onjaw member 214 by insertingjaw pad 316 into T-slot 622. Becausejaw pad 316 andjaw member 214 have a T-shape,jaw pad 316 is able to slide into T-slot 622 until the top ofjaw pad 316 contactstop surface 623. When inserted, pressingface 322 ofjaw pad 316contacts base surface 624 of T-slot 622. The sides ofjaw pad 316 are positioned in grooves 802-803 of T-slot 622 to interlockjaw pad 316 with T-slot 622 in a slidable manner. Thus, althoughcradle 220 may be slid on and offjaw pad 316 in one direction, it is substantially secured onjaw pad 316 in the longitudinal direction ofbar clamp 210 whenjaw pad 316 is inserted in T-slot 622. In other words, a longitudinal force fromjaw pad 316 is translated to cradle 220 without detachingcradle 220 fromjaw pad 316.Cradle 221 may be mounted onjaw member 215 in a similar manner. -
FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating amethod 1000 of operatingelectrical connector tool 200 in an illustrative embodiment. The steps ofmethod 1000 will be described with reference toelectrical connector tool 200 inFIGS. 2-9 , but those skilled in the art will appreciate thatmethod 1000 may be performed with other tools. Also, the steps of the flow charts described herein are not all inclusive and may include other steps not shown, and the steps may be performed in an alternative order. -
Method 1000 begins with the optional step of fabricating, manufacturing, or otherwise forming cradles 220-221 for electrical connector tool 200 (step 1002). An operator or other user may create or identify a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model of the cradles 220-221. The CAD model may be parametric so that the operator may set the width ofgap 418 based on the size of the electrical connector, set the dimensions/shape of T-slot 622 based on the dimensions/shape of a jaw member/jaw pad on a bar clamp, etc. The operator may then fabricate the cradles 220-221 based on the CAD model, such as with 3D printing. - After forming or otherwise acquiring the cradles 220-221, the operator installs, mounts, or otherwise attaches one of the
cradles 220 on one of the jaw members of a bar clamp (step 1004), such as fixedjaw member 214. To mountcradle 220, the operator may insertjaw pad 316 into T-slot 622 ofcradle 220. Whenjaw pad 316 is fully inserted into T-slot 622,cradle 220 is substantially secured on fixedjaw member 214. The operator also installs, mounts, or otherwise attaches the other one of thecradles 221 on the other one of the jaw members of the bar clamp (step 1006), such asmoveable jaw member 215. To mountcradle 221, the operator may insertjaw pad 317 into T-slot 622 ofcradle 221. Whenjaw pad 317 is fully inserted into T-slot 622,cradle 221 is substantially secured onmoveable jaw member 215. When installed in this manner,contact surface 420 ofcradle 220 facescontact surface 420 of cradle 221 (seeFIG. 2 ). The operator may separate cradles 220-221 on bar clamp 210 a desired distance for the following steps. - One assumption at this point is that the operator is tasked with connecting two
electrical connectors 120/140 (seeFIG. 1 ). To begin, the operator may align plug 124 ofelectrical connector 120 withreceptacle 144 ofelectrical connector 140, and insertplug 124 into receptacle 144 a limited amount as shown inFIG. 11 . The operator positionselectrical connector 120 in cradle 220 (step 1008). More particularly, the operator placeselectrical connector 120 lengthwise between arms 406-407 ofcradle 220 so that arms 406-407 straddleelectrical connector 120 as shown inFIG. 12 . With arms 406-407 straddlingelectrical connector 120, thecontact surface 420 of cradle 220 (seeFIG. 4 ) may be brought into contact with the flange 132 (e.g., draw plate) ofelectrical connector 120.Contact surface 420 will contact a side offlange 132 that is facingelectrical cord 110, and that is opposite theside facing plug 124. The operator may optionally insert index pins 430 ofcradle 220 into index holes 136 of flange 132 (step 1010). - The operator positions the other
electrical connector 140 in cradle 221 (step 1012). More particularly, the operator places theelectrical connector 140 lengthwise between arms 406-407 ofcradle 221 so that arms 406-407 straddle theelectrical connector 140 as shown inFIG. 13 . With arms 406-407 straddling theelectrical connector 140, thecontact surface 420 of cradle 221 (seeFIG. 4 ) may be brought into contact with the flange 152 (e.g., draw plate) ofelectrical connector 140.Contact surface 420 will contact a side offlange 152 that is facingelectrical cord 111, and that is opposite theside facing receptacle 144. The operator may optionally insert index pins 430 ofcradle 221 into index holes 156 of flange 152 (step 1014). - As evident in
FIG. 13 ,electrical connectors 120/140 are sandwiched between cradles 220-221. The operator then movescradle 221 towardcradle 220 via bar clamp 210 (step 1016) as shown inFIG. 14 . Ascradle 221 is drawn towardcradle 220, they forceelectrical connectors 120/140 together to make a full connection (i.e., plug 124 is fully inserted in receptacle 144). For instance, whenbar clamp 210 is a ratcheting-type clamp as inFIG. 2 , the operator may repeatedly squeeze thetrigger 219 on ratchetinghandle 218 to longitudinally translatecradle 221 alongslide bar 212 towardcradle 220.Contact surface 420 ofcradle 220 exerts a force againstflange 132 onelectrical connector 120 in the direction ofelectrical connector 140 simultaneously ascontact surface 420 ofcradle 221 exerts a force againstflange 152 onelectrical connector 140 in the direction ofelectrical connector 120. These opposing forces compresselectrical connectors 120/140 together to fully insertplug 124 intoreceptacle 144. The angle of cradles 220-221 on jaw members 214-215 and index pins 430 maintain the alignment ofplug 124 andreceptacle 144 as they are pressed together to avoid binding. -
Electrical connector tool 200 advantageously allows the operator to use one hand to coupleelectrical connectors 120/140, instead of having to graspelectrical connectors 120/140 with both hands and trying to insertplug 124 intoreceptacle 144. The amount of exertion by the operator in squeezingtrigger 219 on ratchetinghandle 218 is much less than what is required to manually insertplug 124 intoreceptacle 144. Thus, operators will experience less muscle fatigue throughout the workday. And, operators with weaker hand/arm muscles or operators with one hand may effectively coupleelectrical connectors 120/140 usingelectrical connector tool 200. - Although specific embodiments were described herein, the scope is not limited to those specific embodiments. Rather, the scope is defined by the following claims and any equivalents thereof.
Claims (20)
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Cited By (2)
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CN114378763A (en) * | 2022-01-19 | 2022-04-22 | 云南电网有限责任公司丽江供电局 | Flange butt joint fixing device |
FR3116015A1 (en) * | 2020-11-06 | 2022-05-13 | Enedis | Mechanical puller tool |
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US7466891B2 (en) * | 2006-06-13 | 2008-12-16 | Panduit Corp. | Activation tool for a fiber optic connector |
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FR3116015A1 (en) * | 2020-11-06 | 2022-05-13 | Enedis | Mechanical puller tool |
CN114378763A (en) * | 2022-01-19 | 2022-04-22 | 云南电网有限责任公司丽江供电局 | Flange butt joint fixing device |
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